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The Star
5 days ago
- Business
- The Star
From legacy to lifestyle resort
Malaysia's first M Social hotel marks new chapter in Penang hospitality A STROLL into M Social Resort Penang reveals a blend of thoughtful design and relaxed island charm, where bold colours, Peranakan touches and modern features come together in a welcoming space. Tucked away in the quiet enclave of Tanjung Bungah on Penang's northern coast, this lifestyle-focused resort is Malaysia's first M Social property and a refreshing addition to the local hospitality landscape. But beneath the playful exterior lies a carefully considered transformation. Bathrooms featuring Peranakan-inspired tiles add a touch of local heritage to the modern design. Formerly the Copthorne Orchid Hotel Penang, the property has been reborn under Millennium Hotels and Resorts' (MHR) fastest-growing lifestyle brand, M Social. The move is not just a rebranding, but a reflection of the group's evolving identity, said MHR global branding, marketing and loyalty vice- president Carolyn Wishnowski. 'The rebranding was driven by the strategic vision of our chairman, who wanted to evolve with the changing preferences of today's travellers,' she said in an interview with StarMetro. Heritage and modern charm With its Penang launch, M Social becomes the seventh property in the global portfolio, joining the ranks of trendsetting locations like Singapore, Paris (France), Phuket (Thailand), Suzhou (China), Auckland (New Zealand) and Times Square New York (the United States). 'We opened M Social Phuket last year, Penang this year, and we are set to open M Social Downtown New York in October, followed by Sunnyvale, Florida (also in the US) in the first quarter of 2026,' said Wishnowski. Rather than tear down and start anew, MHR made a deliberate decision to honour the property's legacy while injecting it with fresh energy. M Social's signature restaurant, Beast and Butterflies, offers both authentic Peranakan and international cuisines. For decades, the Copthorne was a part of Penang's hotel landscape and held sentimental value for the group's leadership. But, as Wishnowski explained, the time had come to realign with the future. 'We saw a unique opportunity to transform a hotel full of legacy and history into something fresh, design-forward and culturally immersive,' she said. Breezy Bites is a poolside space that offers snacks, games and music. 'It wasn't just a renovation; it was also a mindset shift. 'Guided by the brand's 'Live in the Moment' tagline, we wanted to transform it into something fresh and culturally immersive, but still grounded in the spirit of Penang,' she added. That shift is most apparent with the hotel's visual identity. As guests step into the resort's lobby, they are welcomed by murals that reflect Penang's unique blend of heritage and modern charm. Peranakan-inspired patterns and warm, inviting colours set the tone for the space. The Social Hub offers afternoon teas, cocktails and a sunlit setting for laid-back moments. Design elements featuring the dusky leaf monkey, local street-food favourites like char kuey teow as well as sunset-on-the-beach-inspired shades of rose pink, sea green and sky blue come together to highlight the island's culture and natural surroundings. These murals, hand-painted by Thai artist Mayuree Setsomboon of Elegant Art, add character to key areas of the hotel and offer a thoughtful nod to Penang's identity. Guests can unwind by the resort's scenic outdoor pool and soak in stunning sunset views. Wishnowski said each M Social property was guided by its own unique design motif – such as New York drawing inspiration from the city's iconic black-and-yellow taxis and Phuket embracing shades of green to reflect its natural landscape. 'What sets M Social Penang apart is its strong cultural integration and expressive design philosophy. 'In Penang, the palette celebrates the island's rich culture and food setting,' she said. Sweeping sea views from the poolside offer a relaxing coastal escape. — SHALINI RAVINDRAN/The Star This dynamic ethos also extends to the digital transformation within the hotel. M Social Resort Penang is Malaysia's first hotel with in-room artificial intelligence (AI) voice assistant Aiello, allowing guests to control room functions without lifting a finger. Wishnowski said it was also the first hotel in the country to exist in the metaverse, offering a digital twin in Decentraland. Wishnowski says what sets M Social Penang apart is its strong cultural integration and expressive design philosophy. A virtual hotel modelled after different M Social hotels around the world, it offers travellers a chance to explore virtually before visiting and potentially earning real-world rewards. 'Our most exciting addition is the metaverse. 'It is part of the M Social DNA where every property under this brand is represented there,' said Wishnowski. Even with all the modern trimmings, the human element remains at the heart of M Social Penang, she emphasised. 'Many of the resort's staff have stayed on from the Copthorne days. 'The transformation was more about adjusting mindsets and helping everyone see that while we are introducing a new brand, it's still familiar and easy to connect with,' she said. Home for new travellers Strategically located between the hills and the sea, Tanjung Bungah's setting is set to appeal to a growing demographic of young travellers. 'Tanjung Bungah is the ideal location. 'It offers a serene escape while still being near Batu Ferringhi and out of the busy flow of Gurney Drive,' Wishnowski explained. M Social Penang's appeal to younger, eco-conscious travellers is no accident. From glass water bottles and refillable bulk-sized amenities to pre-packed eco-friendly kits, the resort embeds sustainability into the guests' journey. A variety of light bites and signature drinks are served at Social Hub. 'We are speaking to a younger generation of travellers who care about how they travel,' said Wishnowski. 'Our sustainable approach, wellness offerings, and digital innovation set us apart.' Beyond physical expansion, M Social is also building deeper ties within local communities. 'We plan to collaborate with Penang's creative scene and up-and-coming local brands. 'It is about giving back and building something lasting together,' Wishnowski said. Ramli and his wife Noora Ashikin (at centre), joining Saurabh (second from left), Yeoh (fifth left), Leng Beng (sixth left) and other special guests during the grand launch of the resort in Tanjung Bungah. The group celebrated the resort's debut with a launch, marking a new chapter for Malaysia's hospitality scene. The opening was attended by Penang Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Ramli Ngah Talib and his wife Toh Puan Raja Noora Ashikin Raja Abdullah. Also present were Tourism Malaysia deputy chairman Datuk Yeoh Soon Hin, MHR executive chairman Kwek Leng Beng, executive director Kwek Eik Sheng as well as interim chief operating officer and chief commercial officer Saurabh Prakash. The launch wrapped up with a soulful performance by multi-talented Chelsia Ng. Indulgence with local twist The hotel's 318 rooms are divided into two wings – Sunset Bay and Azure. The property caters to solo explorers, couples, families and long-stay guests alike, with rooms ranging from the stylishly cosy 32sq m Social Cosy Room to the 160sq m Social Grand Suite with sunset views. The dining and recreational offerings at M Social Resort Penang reflect local culture, creativity and connection. Beast and Butterflies, the signature restaurant, serves up playful interpretations of Penang favourites alongside international cuisine in a communal setting. A 24-hour gym enables the hotel's guests to work out at their convenience. The Social Hub offers afternoon teas and cocktails in a cosy and friendly space perfect for casual catch-ups. Breezy Bites, located poolside, features live music, light bites, interactive games and sunset views over the pool's mosaic floor that spells out 'M Social'. Beach access, smart TV, fast WiFi along with a 24-hour gym provide guests with a well-rounded mix of comfort, convenience and opportunities to unwind or stay active during their stay. For special occasions, the 482sq m Pinang Pavilion ballroom features a pillarless space to host weddings, conferences and everything in between. The Star readers can enjoy an exclusive offer by using the promo code STARxMSRP when booking through the Millennium Hotels website or the MyMillennium mobile app. The promotion includes a 5% discount on the Flexible Rate or Flexible Rate with Breakfast, a complimentary upgrade to the next room category (subject to availability), and 20% off food and beverage at the hotel's restaurants. This offer is valid for all room categories, with the booking period running until Aug 31, 2025, and the stay period valid until Dec 31, 2025. Standard hotel cancellation policies apply. For details and reservations, visit
Business Times
5 days ago
- Business
- Business Times
Beachside or in the city: South-east Asian stays that discerning travellers bookmark for later
SEASONED GLOBETROTTERS KNOW THIS: THE perfect holiday should start right at the hotel. After all, it is your first real touchpoint with the destination after your journey from the airport. Whether you are drawn to bright city lights or seeking a tranquil retreat, the M Social brand of seven lifestyle hotels around the world offers design-forward stays with personality and flair. From the sleek sophistication of M Social Hotel Suzhou to the bold energy of M Social Hotel New York Times Square, each property brings its own creative energy to the table. 'M Social is made for the young and the young at heart – adventurous, free-spirited travellers who crave vibrant design, artistic energy and authentic social connection. It's a brand for those who live boldly, seek the unexpected and value community over convention,' says Saurabh Prakash, interim chief operating officer and chief commercial officer at Millennium Hotels and Resorts. For those planning a getaway closer to home – or even a weekend staycation – M Social's South-east Asian portfolio includes M Social Hotel Singapore, M Social Hotel Phuket and the newly launched M Social Resort Penang. Each property offers a fresh, distinct personality that reimagines the stay experience – whether by the beach or in the heart of the city. Ease into the day with slow, sun-drenched mornings and scenic swims at M Social Resort Penang before stepping into Penang's rich tapestry of sights and flavours. Photo: M Social Adding to the experience is Aiello, the in-room voice assistant across all M Social properties in South-east Asia. Replacing the traditional hotel phone, Aiello offers guests a hands-free way to enhance their stay. Simply say 'Hello, AI' and be connected to the front desk, request for amenities or get recommendations to nearby attractions. A coastal getaway with a Peranakan twist The latest to join the M Social portfolio this month is M Social Resort Penang, located in the heart of Tanjung Bungah in George Town, and along the northern coast of Penang. Its bold Peranakan-inspired design elements will elevate the popular Batu Ferringhi beachfront, offering guests a playful yet relaxed seafront ambience. There are 318 rooms across two buildings to ensure lots of breathing space for guests. These include terrace rooms that offer direct beach access and beachfront views. A short car ride will take you to popular places of attraction such as Gurney Plaza and Gurney Paragon Mall, as well as Penang Hill and the Instagram-worthy Penang Street Art enclave. Soothing palettes and Peranakan-inspired touches add personality to your stay at M Social Resort Penang. Photo: M Social Or stay in to enjoy amenities including the rooftop pool and Breezy Bites, where you can tuck into small bites, have a drink and chill out with friends and family while enjoying a bird's eye view of Penang. If you have a bigger appetite, head to the in-house Beast and Butterflies for authentic Asian cuisine such as fruit rojak, belacan chicken wings and slipper lobster sambal bawang. Indulge in local Penang cuisine at Beast and Butterflies such as Nasi Lemak with Chicken Rendang and Hokkien Prawn Mee. Photo: M Social It is indeed the epitome of what Jasmine Keh, general manager of M Social Resort Penang, calls 'a vibrant escape where guests dive into immersive local experiences'. Keh adds: 'M Social Resort Penang offers resort-style rooms with stunning beach views, wrapped in modern, sleek design that beautifully blends Penang's rich culture – perfect for free spirits who want to live in the moment.' Unlock exclusive rewards with every stay To make your stay even sweeter, enjoy up to 20 per cent off room rates at all M Social hotels until March 31, 2026. MyMillennium members who make their booking under The Millennium Way promotion can receive additional benefits such as room upgrades, complimentary high tea set and 3,000 bonus MyPoints for a consecutive three-night stay, and up to 30,000 bonus MyPoints for a combined stay of nine nights over different periods. Expand Sun-kissed days meets Thai nightlife glam Located just a 10-minute stroll to Patong Beach, M Social Hotel Phuket is the perfect hybrid of contemporary architecture and lush natural surroundings with 418 rooms and suites. Be welcomed by a striking mural and chic lounge area when you enter M Social Hotel Phuket. Photo: M Social The hotel enjoys direct access to Jungceylon Shopping Centre, while Banzaan Market and the vibrant Bangla Road lie just across the street – the latter coming alive after dark with its energetic nightlife scene. After you have done the dining, shopping and partying circuit, relax and recharge at the hotel's state-of-the-art facilities. These include a day spa, fitness centre and two outdoor pools with scenic mountain views. Unwind in your private cabana or take an afternoon dip and soak in the sun. Photo: M Social Urban reset in the heart of the city Closer to home, M Social Hotel Singapore located along the historic Singapore River lets travellers experience local life along the vibrant Robertson Quay as well as the nearby Clarke Quay, Boat Quay and the Central Business District. Floor-to-ceiling windows bring in natural light and greenery at M Social Hotel Singapore. Photo: M Social But when you need to retreat from the big city buzz, cocoon yourself in the hotel's Philippe Starck-designed space and the cosy comfort of its unique rooms that channel modern living. Think creative loft or alcove rooms with artistic decor and floor-to-ceiling windows that welcome you back for a rejuvenating rest – day after day. Plan your next escape and explore vibrant stays at an M Social destination near you.
Straits Times
21-07-2025
- Business
- Straits Times
With Shatec cutting back operations, what's next for the hospitality sector?
With Shatec scaling down its operations, it's time for Singapore to pursue more sustainable, human-centred strategies for the hospitality industry. In 2017, Hotel Jen introduced Jeno and Jena – two robots designed to handle in-room dining orders – at their two properties in Singapore. They can ride elevators and greet guests upon arrival. Other Singaporean hotels, such as M Social and Marina Bay Sands, have also turned to automation. This is in response to a major problem: an acute recruitment and retention problem in the hospitality industry.
Straits Times
21-07-2025
- Business
- Straits Times
New Penang hotel blends coastal and cultural charm
Find out what's new on ST website and app. The view of the pool at M Social Resort Penang, the first M Social property in Malaysia, which had a grand opening in July 2025. PENANG – M Social Resort Penang has opened on the coast of the Malaysian state, with dreamy sea views, an artificial intelligence (AI) voice butler and local fare as delicious as the island's famed street food. The official launch of the property on July 9, the chain's debut in Malaysia, marks an expansion of Singapore hospitality brand Millennium Hotels & Resorts (MHR) during a landmark year in which the brand turns 30. 'As the first M Social property in Malaysia and the seventh globally, its opening underscores our ongoing focus on lifestyle innovation and regional expansion,' says Mr Saurabh Prakash, MHR's interim chief operating officer and chief commercial officer. He was at the hotel's grand opening alongside VIPs like the Governor of Penang, His Excellency Ramli Ngah Talib, and Mr Kwek Leng Beng, the billionaire executive chairman of MHR, Singapore property giant City Developments Limited (CDL), as well as parent conglomerate Hong Leong Group Singapore. MHR, a subsidiary of CDL that was established in 1995, operates over 145 properties across four continents in cities like New York, Paris, London, Beijing, Dubai and Singapore. Its portfolio includes the M Social and Copthorne brands. The first M Social hotel, designed by iconic French designer and architect Philippe Starck, opened in Robertson Quay in Singapore in 2016. Here are four reasons to check into its latest property. Top stories Swipe. Select. Stay informed. Asia Japan PM Ishiba apologises to his party for election loss, vows to stay in office to deal with US tariff talks Business $1.1 billion allocated to three fund managers to boost Singapore stock market: MAS Singapore Spirits distribution company Proof & Company Spirits closes Singapore business Singapore Malaysia-bound motorists urged to avoid Tuas Second Link on July 23 due to chemical spill exercise Singapore Trial of new dengue vaccine begins recruitment for child participants in Singapore Singapore Mandai Wildlife Group group CEO Mike Barclay to retire; Bennett Neo named as successor Singapore Fresh charge for woman who harassed nurse during pandemic, created ruckus at lion dance competition Singapore Witness stand not arena for humiliation in sex offence cases, judge reminds lawyers 1. Stay between the beaches and the city The hotel exterior of M Social Resort Penang. PHOTO: M SOCIAL RESORT PENANG Penang culture is baked into the design of this 318-room hotel. Peranakan tiles are a key motif, from the hotel rooms to the lift floors. Feature walls have large murals with local symbols, from the anime-eyed, dusky leaf monkey to the Penang Bridge that links to the mainland. Formerly known as the Copthorne Orchid Hotel Penang before it underwent a year-long refurbishment from April 2024, the hotel's plum location is a 10-minute, RM9 (S$2.70) Grab ride to street food haven Gurney Drive in Penang's lively capital, George Town, at one end, and the relaxing beaches of Batu Ferringhi in the opposite direction. Its Tanjung Bungah neighbourhood has a peaceful row of hotels interspersed with homes. The gleeful squeals of a child – who looks to be trampolining as her barely visible head bobs up and down – float up from a house next door to my hotel room on the 14th floor. Flagship restaurant Beast & Butterflies has floor-to-ceiling glass windows looking out on a rhapsody in blue. The azure pool, with swimmers flopping on hot pink inflatables, forms the bottom third of the view. In the middle of the frame lies the wide Andaman Sea, which has its own tiny islet, Pulau Tikus (Rat Island in Malay), which the famous hawker enclave in George Town is named after. This three-layered visual cocktail is topped by the ever-changing sky. 2. Be uplifted by scents A hotel staff member poses in front of a mural in the main lobby at M Social Resort Penang, the first M Social property in Malaysia. ST PHOTO: VENESSA LEE Stepping into the hotel lobby is a sensory experience. I swig a welcome drink – brightly redolent of apple, cinnamon and pandan – in its tasteful, creamy interiors. Within days, I am mildly hooked on the hotel's signature scent, Legendary by Singapore company Engel's Sense, which has notes of Madagascar vanilla. Further olfactory adventures may be on the horizon. I take part in an aromatherapy workshop at the hotel, sniffing 10 essential oils. Who knew that 20 lemons are used to make just 5ml of lemon essential oil or that geranium smells like the rose syrup in bandung? The instructor from Malaysian essential oil company Franoe helps me create my own signature blend of cedarwood and lime, which sounds woodsy, but instead reminds me of cosy teddy bears. The hotel is looking into aromatherapy and cocktail-making workshops for its guests in the future, says a spokesperson. 3. Hawker favourites The Beast & Butterflies restaurant, which serves Malaysian and international cuisine at M Social Resort Penang, PHOTO: M SOCIAL RESORT PENANG Too languorous to venture outdoors? Tuck in at the Beast & Butterflies restaurant, which serves a respectable take on Penang's hawker food. Ikan merah (red snapper), Penang hokkien mee and sup kambing (mutton soup) are standouts, as is the ginger-spiked jackfruit creme brulee. Weekend buffets start at RM98 an adult. The chef is a dab hand at elevating humble ingredients. The breakfast buffet's moreish roti canai, thinner and less chewy than roti prata in Singapore, is better than some versions I try at hawker stalls in Penang. I have to stop shoving in mouthfuls of a side dish of fried cabbage, whose umami quotient is boosted by a liberal sprinkling of hae bee (dried shrimp). 4. My friend, AI The rooms at M Social Resort Penang range in size from 32 to 160 sq m. PHOTO: M SOCIAL RESORT PENANG There are no phones in the hotel rooms, which range in size from 32 to 160 sq m. Instead, like six of MHR's Singapore hotels, in-room services are powered by the Aiello device, which runs on AI. My requests are logged when I say 'Hello AI' out loud, activating the AI voice assistant, which looks like an analogue alarm clock. This is the beginning of a beautiful friendship, where I lie on my deeply comfortable hotel bed and ask Aiello anything under the sun. What time is the sunrise tomorrow? What are the tourist attractions nearby? Can I get extra tea bags? The road to friendship is slightly bumpy, nonetheless. Aiello does not always reply in that ubiquitous, soothing woman's voice that all robots seem to aspire to. Sometimes, my request is met with an awkward silence. I find out that it is my fault. How I say 'Hello AI' sometimes doesn't land. I put on a range of funny voices – male, female, loud, soft, Mickey Mouse – in the name of scientific research. It turns out that I just need to speak loudly and clearly enough. There are limits, though, to my one-sided demands that even the unfailingly courteous Aiello cannot meet. She can summon the front desk to deliver my 11pm request of ice for my drinks, but the buck stops with integrating all hotel systems to my convenience. 'Turn down my air-con, please,' I ask. Aeillo replies: 'To turn down the air-conditioning in your room, you can use the air-conditioner control panel. Unfortunately, I can't.'
Rakyat Post
15-07-2025
- Business
- Rakyat Post
M Social Resort Penang: A Vibrant Vacation Spot At Tanjung Bungah
Subscribe to our FREE Upscale lifestyle brand 'M Social' by Millennium Hotels and Resorts (MHR) celebrated its debut in Malaysia with the grand opening of M Social Resort Penang on 9 July 2025. M Social Resort Penang is the seventh M Social property globally and third in Southeast Asia; the others located in Singapore, Paris, New York, Phuket, Suzhou, and Auckland. Following the soft launch in March 2025, the resort now welcomes guests to a fully reimagined coastal retreat, where all 318 stylish rooms and suites, dining concepts, and lifestyle facilities are now open and ready to be explored. If M Social Resort Penang looks familiar, that's because it used to be the Copthorne Orchid Hotel Penang, situated in the vibrant coastal suburb of Tanjung Bungah, George Town. The revamp reflects the brand's playful spirit and creative energy, combining bold design, local culture, and vibrant social experiences. Upon entering the lobby, guests are greeted by the sight of a long beautiful mural showcasing Penang's gems before the attention is fully held by the amazing panaromic sea view at the signature restaurant, Beast and Butterflies. Once you've fully taken in the arresting view, you'll realise the hotel's designs carries influences of the iconic Pernakan shophouses in shades of pink, green, and blue around its facades and interior. The hotel's signature restaurant Beast and Butterflies features a panoramic sea view. Part of the long mural at the lobby. Image: Adeline Leong/TRP Which rooms to get? The hotel has two wings: The Sunset Bay Wing and the Azure Wing. The Sunset Bay Wing offers four room and suite types, each with breathtaking views of the island's northern coast. Meanwhile, the Azure Wing features three room and suite types perfectly suited for families, honeymooners, and small groups with stunning beachfront views. Social Cosy – King at the Sunset Bay Wing. Social Junior Suite – King at the Sunset Bay Wing Each room is equipped with: An in-room Aiello voice control assistant for a fuss-free stay with access to controls and hotel information with a simple voice command. A 55-inch smart TV. High-speed Wi-Fi Coffee and tea-making station Hairdryer A mini bar An in-room safe The hotel is also happy to help guests set up for birthday surprises and romantic getaways. If you want to hold a large party or a business meeting, the 482 sqm Grand Ballroom is a versatile space to suit your needs with a range of in-house amenities. Romantic getaways Birthday bear! What's there to eat? The Beast and Butterflies restaurant serves a la carte and buffet meals featuring authentic Peranakan and international cuisine made with quality, fresh local ingredients. For something lighter, the Social Hub is a relaxed lounge perfect for afternoon teas and elegant cocktails. The Social Hub is perfect for afternoon teas and cocktails. There's also the poolside bar, Breezy Bites, where guests can enjoy a tipple or two while playing a few rounds of pool, games, or dance to the music. Additionally, there are various dining spots near the hotel such as the Astaka food court, char kuey teow restaurant, and the Wine Shop Signature for Western dishes. Mac n Cheese Breezy Bites bar Penang colada What's there to see or do outside? Aside from jumping into the pool or hitting the 24-hour gym, M Social Resort Penang is about 15 minutes away from the Gurney stretch. Here, guests can enjoy a sunset stroll along the Gurney Bay waterfront, shop at Gurney Plaza, Gurney Paragon Mall, and Gurney Walk. With more time, guests can explore the more touristy spots such as the Pinang Peranakan Mansion, the Clan Jetties of Penang, Penang Street Art, the Hin Bus Depot for artsy events, and Armenian Street for its vibrant cultural scene, especially the well-preserved historic shophouses. Pool view facing the sea. Image: Adeline Leong/TRP Sunset at Gurney waterfront. Image: Adeline Leong/TRP Enjoy new stay perks M Social Resort Penang is offering The Millennium Way package. Guests can choose two enticing complimentary perks, including signature welcome drinks for two, a delectable box of chocolates, and RM100 in dining credit and more. The exclusive offer is available for bookings and stays now through 31 March 2026. MyMillennium members can look forward to exciting rewards with 3,000 bonus MyPoints for a consecutive three-night stay, and an impressive 30,000 bonus MyPoints when accumulating nine nights for stays by 31 March 2026. There's also a special grand launch promo code for TRP readers as well. With the code TRPxMSRP , readers can enjoy: 5% off the Flexible Rate with breakfast Complimentary room upgrades to the next category (subject to availability) 20% off food and beverages at the hotel's restaurant Bookings are applicable for all room categories and must be done via the Millennium Hotels website or MyMillennium app. The booking period is from now until 31 August 2025 and the stay period starts now until 31 December 2025. Share your thoughts with us via TRP's . Get more stories like this to your inbox by signing up for our newsletter.
